Top Age-Tech Gadgets for Seniors: Tested Recommendations to Enhance Daily Life
As the population ages, innovative “age-tech” devices are emerging to support older adults and their caregivers. These tools aim to promote independence, reduce isolation, improve health, and allow seniors to remain in their homes longer. With millions of elders over 65 living alone in the US, according to Census data, the demand for such technology is surging. However, many options come with high costs and subscriptions, and they’re not substitutes for personal care or visits.
WIRED contributor Simon Hill has extensively tested these gadgets, both personally and with family members. Here’s a curated selection of standout devices that performed well in real-world use, along with key considerations for choosing the right one.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying Age-Tech
Before investing, discuss with the senior and household members to ensure they’re comfortable with the tech. Privacy is a major issue—many devices use cameras or microphones for remote access, so review policies and indicators carefully.
Installation ranges from simple to complex, and most require reliable Wi-Fi. Costs often include upfront hardware fees plus monthly subscriptions (with discounts for annual payments). Check for trials, subsidies via insurance, or sales. Importantly, these tools should complement—not replace—human interaction, and they won’t work during outages.
Recommended Devices
GrandPad Tablet
This senior-focused tablet simplifies communication and entertainment. It includes a wireless charging stand, optional cellular data, and pre-loaded apps for video calls, photo sharing (turning it into a digital frame), music streaming, games like chess or bingo, and safe web browsing. Family can manage it remotely.
Pricing: $349 upfront + subscriptions from $25/month (Wi-Fi only) to $65/month (higher data).
Ideal for seniors who struggled with smartphones; it offers 24/7 support and has proven reliable for staying connected.
JubileeTV Set-Top Box
Transform a regular TV into a caregiving hub. It enables big-screen video calls, remote TV assistance (changing channels, fixing issues, adjusting volume), on-screen reminders for meds or appointments, activity checks, and photo/video sharing. An optional simple remote makes it even easier.
Pricing: $199 hardware + subscriptions from $29/month, or all-in options up to $789 with no recurring fees.
Highly dependable in testing, it’s a potential lifeline for TV-loving seniors, though setup is involved and privacy features (like auto-answered calls) need careful handling.
ElliQ AI Companion Robot
A desk-based robot with an animated, lamp-like design and attached tablet. It proactively chats, answers questions, plays music, sets reminders, suggests activities for stress relief, and facilitates video calls/photos. Aimed at combating loneliness for those living alone.
Pricing: $249 enrollment + $59/month subscription (discounts available).
Charming and engaging, it encourages healthy habits but can feel overly simplistic or slow at times.
Memory Air Scent Device
Placed on a nightstand, this uses scented cartridges and a fan to deliver 40 different smells (like eucalyptus or gingerbread) twice nightly during sleep. Research links olfactory stimulation to better memory and cognition, especially for dementia patients—a study showed significant improvements in older adults.
Pricing: $799 hardware + $39/month for refills.
A non-invasive, pleasant approach with promising science; effects may be strongest for those with cognitive decline.
Other Noteworthy Options
OnScreen JoyTV: A simpler TV-based alternative to JubileeTV with video calls, an AI companion for games and check-ins, at $180 + $30/month.
Cerret Bracelet: Stylish gold-plated alert bracelet for falls or emergencies ($280).
Emerging tools include routine-tracking wearables like Nomo Smart Care, AI memoir creators like StoriedLife, and free tech education from nonprofits like Techpals. The sector is expanding rapidly—explore resources like AARP’s AgeTech Collaborative for more.
Age-tech can meaningfully boost quality of life, but success depends on the individual’s needs, receptiveness, and support from loved ones. Start with open conversations and trials where possible. (Based on testing by Simon Hill, originally published December 12, 2025.)
Other Noteworthy Options
- OnScreen JoyTV: A simpler TV-based alternative to JubileeTV with video calls, an AI companion for games and check-ins, at $180 + $30/month.
- Cerret Bracelet: Stylish gold-plated alert bracelet for falls or emergencies ($280).
Emerging tools include routine-tracking wearables like Nomo Smart Care, AI memoir creators like StoriedLife, and free tech education from nonprofits like Techpals. The sector is expanding rapidly—explore resources like AARP’s AgeTech Collaborative for more.
Age-tech can meaningfully boost quality of life, but success depends on the individual’s needs, receptiveness, and support from loved ones. Start with open conversations and trials where possible. (Based on testing by Simon Hill, originally published December 12, 2025.)
Source and original URL https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-age-tech/ – Thanks to our friends at wired
